My yellow trumpet vine had a lot of black ants this summer. Is that normal? I never noticed this other summers. They were so many that a few came into the house. If ants are normal, can I spray something on the ants, or will I kill the plant? My plant is huge, about 15', it surrounds my deck for privacy. Hate to lose the plant, but want to lose the ants.

Marilyn

Answers

By Lee Martin (Guest Post)

August 30, 20080 found this helpful

I use plain dish soap and water in a spray bottle. Spray a couple of times every day and they will give up. I does not hurt the leaves. Good luck from Nova Scotia Canada

I don't know much about trumpet vines, but here's a thought--could they be like peonies--and need the ants for pollination/blooming? If so any treatment needs should not be applied to the plant directly. What about treating the foundation/windowsill (where ever the ants are coming in at)? My granny used to sprinkle borax (laundry booster) around the door and windows where she kept her peony bushes for just that reason.